In some cases, the symptoms do not begin until age 2-5 years old. The condition progresses slowly, but most children with Tay-Sachs disease do not live beyond age 15 years. Symptoms may include:

Loss of the ability to speak

Developmental delay and intellectual disability

Loss of bowel control

Sleep problems

Movement disorder such as difficulty walking and muscle weakness

Tremor

Slurred speech

Psychiatric problems

Loss of vision

Spasticity and seizures

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your child's symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. The doctor may examine your child's eyes to look for a cherry red spot on the retina.

Your child's bodily fluids may be tested. This can be done with blood tests.

Treatment

There is presently no treatment for TSD. Treatment is aimed at managing symptoms.

Prevention

There are no known ways to prevent Tay-Sachs disease. If you are a carrier of the gene that causes TSD, you can talk to a genetic counselor before deciding to have children. Prenatal testing during the first trimester is available.

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